Can Using Sunscreen Reverse Ageing Process?

We all think of sunscreen as something that goes into our vacation kit when heading out on a hike in the hills or to the beach. What we fear is being out in the sun can reduce fairness and/or case a tan, and sunscreen will help maintain complexion.
This is a completely wrong notion. What we need to be aware of is that even the regular, daily sun exposure during driving or going to the office can do as much damage if not more. The sunscreen, therefore, assumes a very important role in your daily personal care. Read on and find out more.

1. Relationship with skin cancer - Studies in the US have shown that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and sun exposure is the leading cause of this. It is the regular exposure on a daily basis that cumulatively leads to this, rather than a one-day exposure minus the sunscreen. Using sunscreen on a regular basis provides a good shield against skin cancer.

2. Slows down ageing - The dry skin, wrinkles, sun spots and dark circles on the skin are more a result of unprotected exposure to the sun rather than just ageing. The sun is the most powerful agent that can lead to these effects and it is very essential to guard yourself against it.

While the general belief is that the sun is less harmful during cloudy days, it is not so. The ultraviolet rays of the sun filter through clouds and cause equal damage as they would during sunny summer days. Studies have shown that these rays which filter through the clouds are capable of continuing their accelerated ageing effects even after you have reached your homes. It is not just the amount of time you are actually out in the sun that counts. The collagen in the skin that gives it the firmness is damaged, leading to sagging and bagging. 

Using a sunscreen provides a shield against these harmful UV rays. Research has shown a 73% reduction in the invasive forms of skin cancer by using sunscreen on a regular basis.
It is a popular belief that fair complexion is more affected by sun exposure. It is true that darker complexion has more melanocytes that increase its natural protection, but this does not ensure complete protection against the harmful ultraviolet rays.

After reading this, a sunscreen lotion with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more should find its way into your grooming kit.